Defense Secretary Hegseth Vows to Resist Congressional Impeachment Efforts Amid Midterm Fallout
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth released a video asserting he will not back down as Democrats, who gained control of Congress, announce investigations into his handling of the Pentagon and the Iran operation.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted a video on Thursday saying he will continue to lead the Pentagon despite renewed calls in Congress for his impeachment. The remarks came after the recent midterm elections, in which Democrats secured a majority in both chambers and pledged to examine Hegseth’s conduct of the Iran operation, the dismissal of senior military leaders and other Pentagon matters.
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries questioned Hegseth’s continued tenure in a social-media post, while Republican Representative Thomas Massie announced plans to reintroduce impeachment articles next week, warning that hearings and trials could follow.
In the video, Hegseth defended the Iran campaign, describing it as a "courageous and historic effort" intended to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He also highlighted his efforts to restructure senior Pentagon leadership and to end certain diversity initiatives.
President Donald Trump, when asked about possible staffing changes, praised Hegseth’s performance and linked opposition to the secretary’s personnel decisions, noting the removal of several four-star generals. Trump also referenced U.S. operations in Venezuela and the ongoing presence in Iran.
Vice President JD Vance publicly questioned the value of the Iran operation, suggesting it contributed to Republican losses in the midterms. A Trump adviser indicated that Hegseth could face further scrutiny because of the campaign.
The Defense Department stated that Hegseth remains fully committed to leading the Pentagon through the remainder of the administration’s term. He appealed to lawmakers to approve a funding request that would support the Iran operation and broader defense priorities.
Senator Thom Tillis warned that Hegseth’s strained relations with legislators could hinder the administration’s effort to pass a $1.5 trillion defense spending package. Democrats are also expected to review Hegseth’s policies on Ukraine and U.S. strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels in Latin America, with some members raising concerns about potential violations of international law.